Plan a Feel-Good Trip in the Harrogate District
You don't have to travel far to escape the everyday and find a place that is guaranteed to make you feel good. Nestled in glorious North Yorkshire countryside, the Harrogate district offers just that
Find some inspiration here with our suggested itinerary for the perfect feel-good weekend or find out more at visitharrogate.co.uk/feelgoodplace.
Day One
What better way to start your feel-good trip than in the great outdoors?
Harrogate is surrounded by so much magnificent countryside, your choices will be endless. For a slower pace, head to Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden, just outside of the city of Ripon. Here you can explore the extensive grounds and take in the breathtaking views across the water garden. This really is a gem you don't want to miss.
If you are looking for something a little faster paced, something to get the blood pumping, then save the afternoon for a trip to How Stean Gorge Activity Centre. Nestled in the glorious Nidderdale AONB, you can try your hand at gorge walking, caving, rock climbing and abseiling or simply enjoy the gorge views from the glass-covered floor of the on-site café.
After all that adventure, you will be in need of some serious relaxation. The perfect spot for this is Rudding Park Hotel & Spa, located just outside Harrogate, Rudding Park captures Harrogate's spa heritage using natural waters from the grounds. Here you will find the luxurious rooftop spa, where you can take advantage of the Supper and Roof Top Spa experience, enjoying the surroundings at twilight whilst treating yourself to dinner at the Horto Café.
Day Two
Wake up refreshed for your second day and ready for some more relaxation.
Compare spa experiences by heading to the traditional Turkish Baths in the heart of Harrogate town centre. The Turkish Baths Harrogate is one of Britain's most fully restored Victorian Turkish Baths, which offers an authentic experience of heating, cooling and cleansing the body, promising a sense of relaxation and a clear mind.
If you want to learn more about the spa heritage of Harrogate and the surrounding areas, you can take a journey back in time with a visit to the Royal Pump Room Museum, and uncover the weird and wonderful treatments of time gone by. Promenade along the beautiful Valley Gardens, or take time out to take in mesmerising artwork at the Mercer Art Gallery.
Take a stroll around town, and you will find an array of high-quality independent cafés, bars and restaurants to stop in for a rest – you could even find somewhere to stop for Afternoon Tea.
To make your trip that little extra special, try a foodie experience to remember at the luxury five star hotel Grantley Hall near Ripon. Grantley Hall is a food lover's dream offering four indulgent restaurants, including Michelin-starred dining at Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall.
Stay overnight in one of the 47 exquisite rooms or spend your final night doing something a little different and head to the Swinton Estate, near Masham for an evening in a Tree Lodge or Meadow Yurt.
Day Three
A feel-good trip wouldn't be complete without spending time at the magnificent Swinton Estate.
Whether you are waking up here, or just spending the day, there is so much on offer to make you feel good. From immersive experiences such as spa bathing and cycling around the expansive grounds to wild swimming in the lake, you could easily spend your entire trip here.
Top off your trip by spending the afternoon with a unique walking experience in the Nidderdale countryside with a new llama friend. Choose from a relaxing short walk or a longer more adventurous trek with one of these calming animals by your side. At Nidderdale Llamas, you will be matched with your perfect companion, who we are sure you are going to want to take home with you!
